The Embassies of Norway and Denmark will launch a scholarship programme for students from all communities in Rakhine State, together with Center for Diversity and National Harmony (CDNH), according to a press release.

“The programme is the first of its kind. We hope it will help pave the way for further action and improved conditions for disadvantaged people from Rakhine State in the future.” said Norwegian Ambassador Tone Tinnes.

Rakhine State continues to face significant development challenges. Ensuring access to quality education is one of the key recommendations of the Rakhine Advisory Commission, and international partners were called on to support the implementation of the recommendations. The aim of the programme is to improve access to higher education for students from different vulnerable communities in Rakhine State and to contribute to social cohesion among all communities.

Danish Ambassador John Nielsen adds: “The scholarship programme will help implement the recommendations from the Rakhine Advisory Commission. It will provide young people from vulnerable communities in Rakhine State with better opportunities for their future and empower them to make a change for their local communities.”

Students from different communities in Rakhine, who have been admitted to the first year of studies at higher education institutions in the December 2019 intake are eligible to apply for the scholarship programme.

Scholarship recipients will be chosen by a selection committee, comprised of representatives from the education sector, government and civil society.